The Lonestar LeMans is headed to Austin September 18 to September 20! As a warmup to F1 racing at the end of October, the LeMans is a completely different type of racing from F1, but as exciting and thrill-inducing as it’s big brother. What can you expect?

LeMans is an endurance race, plain and simple. It’s the world’s oldest sports car race; the race has been held near its origins in LeMans, France since 1923. Cars race the track for 24 hours straight, with only very short pit stops for changing tires, brakes and refueling, while the drivers switch out after their two-hour driving stint. A maximum of three drivers are allowed on each team during the race; when they’re not driving, each team member is able to eat and grab a bit of sleep before returning to the car for another two hours.

The biggest challenge for each team is the car. Cars used for LeMans racing fall into two classes: Grand Touring cars, which are similar to the high-end sports cars we see every day, and two-seater prototype sports cars. The key is LeMans success is the same, though, regardless of which type the team is driving – keeping the car going for 24 hours straight without major mechanical problems. It’s obvious, then, that the most important part of any LeMans team is the mechanics and technicians behind the scenes!

What sets the Lonestar LeMans apart from other LeMans-type races in the U.S., like Daytona? First, it is held at the state-of-the-art Circuit of the Americas (COTA), the world’s premier auto racing venue. And this year, it is the only place in the United States to see LeMans prototypes and GT LeMans cars from both the World Endurance Championship and the Tudor United Sports Car Championship.

COTA sports more than just world-class auto racing, though. Going to a race at COTA is an adventure in itself. Aside from the thrill of nonstop racing throughout the Lonestar LeMans, you can get a tour of the pits, talk with the racers and get autographs and a fireworks show to close the race. There will also be music from Blue Oyster Cult!

So what are your plans for this weekend? Looking for a way to get to the Lonestar LeMans? Tickets are still available both online and at your favorite ticket outlet. There is still time to book your executive car or limousine to take you to the race in style. You are going to watch others drive – why not let someone else drive you there? Our professional, courteous drivers will ensure your comfort both to COTA and back to your home, without the hassle of the drive or parking. And if you are only in Austin for the race, our drivers know the best restaurants and nighttime festivities to please even the pickiest of Austin visitors.